Risk Factors For Ischemic Complications Research Articles

Acute and Long-Term Management of Blunt Cerebrovascular Injury at a Quaternary Referral Level 1 Trauma Center: The Memphis Experience and Comparison of a New Scoring System.

The management of blunt cerebrovascular injuries (BCVIs) remains an important topic within trauma and neurosurgery today. There remains a lack of consensus within the literature and significant variation across institutions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate management of BCVI at a large, tertiary referral trauma center. Institutional Review Board approval was obtained to conduct a retrospective review of patients with BCVI at our Level 1 Trauma Center. Computed tomography angiography was used to identify BCVI for each patient. Patient information was collected, and statistical analysis was performed. With the included risk factors for ischemic complications, a novel scoring system based on ischemic risk, the "Memphis Score," was developed and evaluated to grade BCVI. Two hundred seventeen patients with BCVI from July 2020 to August 2022 were identified. The most common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle collision (141, 65.0%). Vertebral arteries were the most common vessel injured (136, 51.1%) with most injuries occurring at a high cervical location (101, 38.0%). Denver Grade 1 injuries (89, 33.5%) and a Memphis Score of 1 were most frequent (172, 64.6%), and initial anticoagulation with heparin drip was initiated 56.7% of the time (123). Endovascular treatment was required in 24 patients (11.1%) and was usually performed in the first 48 hours (15, 62.5%). While Denver Grade (P = .019) and Memphis Score (P < .00001) were significantly higher in those patients undergoing endovascular treatment, only the Memphis Score demonstrated a significant difference between those patients who had stroke or worsening on follow-up imaging and those who did not (P = .0009). Although BCVI management has improved since early investigative efforts, institutions must evaluate and share their data to help clarify outcomes. The novel "Memphis Score" presents a standardized framework to communicate ischemic risk and guide management of BCVI.

Risk Factors for Specific Postoperative Ischemic Complications in Patients with Moyamoya Disease: A Single-Center Retrospective Study.

To evaluate and compare postoperative ischemic complications to determine the risk factors for ischemic complications following revascularization surgery for Moyamoya disease (MMD). This single-center retrospective study included 266 procedures between 2016 and 2021. Three types of revascularization approaches including direct bypass, indirect bypass, and combined bypass were performed. To identify risk factors for postoperative ischemic complications and contralateral cerebral infarction, preoperative clinical characteristics and radiographic features were examined using multivariate and ordinal logistic regression analyses. Postoperative ischemic complications occurred in 103 (6.6%) procedures. Ischemic presentation (p=0.001, odds ratios [OR] 5.59, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.05-15.23), hypertension (p=0.030, OR 2.75, 95%CI 1.11- 6.83), advanced Suzuki stage (p=0.006, OR 3.19, 95%CI 1.40-7.26), and collateral circulation (p=0.001 OR 0.17, 95%CI 0.06-0.47) were risk factors for postoperative ischemic complications. Ordinal regression analysis revealed that unilateral involvement (p=0.043, OR 2.70, 95%CI 0.09-5.31), hemorrhagic presentation (p=0.013, OR 3.45, 95%CI 0.72-6.18), surgical approach (p=0.032, OR -1.38, 95%CI -2.65, -0.12), and collateral circulation [p=0.043, OR -1 .27, 95%CI -2.51, -0.04)] were associated with the type of ischemic complications. History of hypertension (p=0.031) and contralateral computed tomography (CT) perfusion stage (p=0.045) were associated with contralateral infarction. Inability of cerebral vessels to withstand changes in blood pressure induced by revascularization-related hemodynamic instability might be associated with postoperative complications in patients with Moyamoya disease.

Clinical Outcomes of Internal Iliac Artery Interruption during Endovascular Aneurysm Repair.

This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of internal iliac artery (IIA) interruption during endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and to identify the risk factors for ischemic complications. Endovascular treatment was performed in 316 patients with aneurysms or pseudoaneurysms of the abdominal aorta or iliac arteries between March 2006 and January 2022. Medical records and radiological imaging studies were retrospectively reviewed. The incidences of buttock claudication, ischemic colitis, and spinal cord ischemia after IIA interruption were investigated as clinical outcomes. Binary logistic regression analysis were performed to identify the risk factors. IIA embolization was performed in 78 patients. Among the 42 patients who underwent IIA flow preservation procedures, the one-month computed tomography detected early failure in five patients. The origin of the IIA was covered with an endograft in ten patients who did not undergo embolization. Eventually, interruption of the IIA by EVAR was observed in 93 patients. Considering preoperative IIA occlusion, there was a total of six patients who did not have at least one IIA patency. Buttock claudication occurred in 32.6% of the patients, and none of the patients had ischemic colitis or spinal cord ischemia. In multivariable analysis, age ≤80 years and isolated iliac artery aneurysm were associated with the development of postoperative buttock claudication. The most common complication after IIA interruption is buttock claudication; however, critical complications such as ischemic colitis or spinal cord ischemia are rare, even in bilateral IIA occlusion. Adjunctive procedures to preserve bilateral IIA perfusion should be adopted selectively.

Evaluation of multimodal intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring during supratentorial aneurysm surgery: a comparative study.

The objective of this study is to determine the role of multimodal intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring (IONM) in the overall outcome of intracranial aneurysms surgery, and the risk factors associated with ischemic complications. We grouped 268 ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms surgically treated at our institution into 2 cohorts, based on the use of IONM (180; 67.16%) or non-use of IONM (88; 32.84%). The IONM technique used was multimodal: electroencephalogram (EEG), somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs), transcranial (TES), and direct cortical (DCS) stimulation motor evoked potentials (MEPs). There was a significant difference, with a reduction in perioperative strokes (p = 0.011) and better motor surgery-related outcome in the IONM group (p = 0.016). Independent risk factors identified for surgery ischemic complications were temporary clipping time ≥ 6'05″ (odds ratio [OR]: 3.03; 95% CI: 1.068-8.601; p = 0.037), aneurysm size ≥ 7.5mm (OR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.127-6.235; p = 0.026), and non-use of IONM (OR: 2.79; 95% CI: 1.171-6.636; p = 0.021). Conversely, aneurysm rupture was not detected as an independent risk factor (OR: 2.5; 95% CI: 0.55-4.55; p = 0.4). Longer temporary clipping time, larger aneurysm size, and the non-use of IONM could be considered as risk factors for ischemic complications during microsurgical clipping. A standardized designed protocol including multimodal IONM with DCS provides continuous information about blood supply and allows reduction of treatment-related morbidity. Multimodal IONM is a valuable technique in intracranial aneurysm surgery.

Failure to preserve the internal iliac artery during abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is associated with mortality and ischemic complications

ObjectiveOpen or endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) can involve sacrifice of the internal iliac artery (IIA). In the present study, we investigated the effect of IIA exclusion on ischemic complications and overall mortality. MethodsThe data from 326 patients who had undergone elective open surgical or endovascular treatment of a nonruptured AAA from January 2010 to December 2019 in a tertiary hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Ischemic complications included buttock claudication, spinal ischemia (including paraparesis), ischemic colitis, lower limb paresthesia, and skin necrosis. Their duration and mortality during the study period were investigated. ResultsNearly 50% of patients (148; 45.4%) had undergone endovascular aortic aneurysm repair and 178 (54.6%) had undergone open surgery. The median patient age was 78 years (range, 31-94 years). The median follow-up period was 1140 days (range, 0-4757 days). Of the 326 patients, 50 (15.3%) had died during follow-up. The bilateral IIAs were preserved in 187 patients (57.4%), a single IIA in 86 patients (26.4%), and no IIA in 53 patients (16.3%). Ischemic complications occurred in 57 patients (17.5%). Multivariable analysis revealed failure to preserve the bilateral IIAs (hazard ratio [HR], 8.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.31-17.36; P < .01), management of the IIA (HR, 3.05, 95% CI, 2.17-4.28; P < .01), and hyperlipidemia (HR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.04-4.17; P = .04) affected the occurrence of ischemic complications. Furthermore, univariable analysis revealed that patients had experienced more ischemic complications when a single IIA (HR, 6.97; 95% CI, 3.74-13.02; P < .01) or none of the IIAs had been preserved (HR, 8.88; 95% CI, 4.12-19.16; P < .01) than when both IIAs were preserved. Moreover, multivariable analysis revealed that stage 5 chronic kidney disease (HR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.09-6.14; P = .03), age >75 years (HR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.12-5.49; P = .03), cerebrovascular accident (HR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.00-3.78; P = .05), and failure to preserve the bilateral IIAs (HR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.02-3.46; P = .04) were associated with higher mortality after AAA repair. ConclusionsIIA exclusion is a risk factor for ischemic complications and overall mortality. Thus, preservation of the IIA as much as possible during AAA repair is recommended.

Abstract 14311: Gene Guided Antiplatelet Therapy for Acute Coronary Syndrome: An Updated Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Clopidogrel has been the mainstay oral antiplatelet regimen to treat Acute Coronary syndrome (ACS) post percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stents. However, there is marked inter-individual variability due to genetic polymorphisms in the hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 in the antiplatelet effects of clopidogrel and a reduced response to this drug may be a risk factor for ischemic complications. There has been varied evidence in gene-guided antiplatelet therapy post PCI. An updated meta-analysis was conducted to study the effect of gene-guided antiplatelet therapy in ACS. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed in Embase, PubMed and SCOPUS for all the related articles until May 2021 yielding 180 publications. Nine studies fulfilled inclusion criteria including 8 randomized clinical trials and 1 observational study. The Mantel- Haenszel random-effects model was used to calculate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Outcomes analyzed were the composite major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), stent thrombosis, myocardial infarction (MI), bleeding and cardiovascular (CV) death. Results: Gene guided antiplatelet therapy was performed in 7106 patients and conventional therapy in 3970 patients. The MACE events was significantly lower in gene-guided therapy arm (OR = 0.67, 95% CI [0.51 -0.87], P=0.003) driven by lower stent thrombosis (OR=0.47, 95% CI [0.25 -0.88], P=0.02) and lower MI in the gene guided therapy (OR=0.61, 95% CI [0.41 -0.92], P=0.02). The bleeding rates trended to be lower in the gene guided therapy as well (OR = 0.75, 95% CI [0.54-1.02], P=0.07). There is no significance difference in CV death. (OR=0.57, 95% CI [0.21-1.55]) Conclusions: Genotype guided antiplatelet therapy in ACS has lower adverse cardiovascular outcomes driven by lower stent thrombosis and MI with lower bleeding trends as well.

Usefulness of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring During the Clipping of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysm: Diagnostic Efficacy and Detailed Protocol.

Background: Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) has been widely applied in brain vascular surgeries to reduce postoperative neurologic deficit (PND). This study aimed to investigate the effect of IONM during clipping of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs).Methods: Between January 2013 and August 2020, we enrolled 193 patients with 202 UIAs in the N group (clipping without IONM) and 319 patients with 343 UIAs in the M group (clipping with IONM). Patients in the M group were intraoperatively monitored for motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs). Irreversible evoked potential (EP) change was defined as EP deterioration that did not recover until surgery completion. Sustained PND was defined as neurological symptoms lasting for more than one postoperative month.Results: Ten (3.1%) and 13 (6.7%) in the M and N groups, respectively, presented with PND. Compared with the N group, the M group had significantly lower occurrence rates of sustained PND [odds ratio (OR) = 0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.13–0.98, p = 0.04], ischemic complications (OR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.15–0.98, p = 0.04), and radiologic complications (OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.19–0.82, p = 0.01). Temporary clipping was an independent risk factor for ischemic complications (ICs) in the total patient group (OR = 6.18, 95% CI = 1.75–21.83, p = 0.005), but not in the M group (OR = 5.53, 95% CI = 0.76–41.92, p = 0.09). Regarding PND prediction, considering any EP changes (MEP and/or SSEP) showed the best diagnostic efficiency with a sensitivity of 0.900, specificity of 0.940, positive predictive value of 0.321, negative predictive value (NPV) of 0.997, and a negative likelihood ratio (LR) of 0.11.Conclusion: IONM application during UIA clipping can reduce PND and radiological complications. The diagnostic effectiveness of IONM, specifically the NPV and LR negative values, was optimal upon consideration of changes in any EP modality.

Normal Variant Vein in the Deep Sylvian Fissure (Common Vertical Trunk) Increases the Risk of Ischemic Complication after Clipping Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysm with Short M1

Middle cerebral artery aneurysms (MCANs) associated with short M1 located in the limen insulae tend to have poor outcomes after surgical clipping due to brain contusions and ischemic complications. However, the effect of veins in the deep Sylvian fissure is unclear. The normal variant of the insular veins and deep middle cerebral vein, which runs anteriorly near the limen and drains into the sphenoparietal sinus, is known as the common vertical trunk (CVT). We retrospectively examined whether the presence of a CVT increased surgical complications after clipping of short M1 aneurysms in 164 cases of unruptured MCANs (153 patients) clipped by the same surgeon. The 21 aneurysms located proximal to the limen insulae were defined as short M1 aneurysms. The 164 patients were divided into a short M1 group (n=21) and a non-short M1 group (n=143). The short M1 group was further divided into a CVT group (n=6) and a non-CVT group (n=15). The short M1 group showed a significantly (p＜0.001) longer operative time and higher rates of lacunar infarction and symptomatic (modified Rankin score ≥1) infarction than the non-short M1 group. The CVT group had higher rates of lacunar infarction and symptomatic infarction (50.0% and 16.7%, respectively) than the non-CVT group (26.7% and 6.7%, respectively). The CVT obstructed the view of the aneurysm neck behind the CVT, where the lenticulostriate arteries were located. The presence of a CVT in cases of short M1 aneurysms may be a risk factor for ischemic complications after clipping surgery.

Microsurgical clipping of ruptured anterior choroidal artery aneurysms: Incidence of and risk factors for ischemic complications

ObjectiveTemporary clipping of the internal carotid artery can be required during microsurgery of a ruptured anterior choroidal artery (AchoA) aneurysm. Although it is suspected that such temporary clipping might be related to ischemic complications following surgery, no detailed analysis has been reported yet. Patients and methodsEighty-nine patients with ruptured AchoA aneurysms treated by microsurgical clipping were recruited between January 1996 and December 2017. Patient medical records, radiographic data, and intraoperative video findings were retrospectively reviewed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the risk factors for treatment-related ischemic complications. ResultsTreatment-related ischemic complications occurred in eight (9.0 %) patients, all of whom underwent temporary clipping during microsurgery. Patients who did not undergo temporary clipping (n = 20) did not experience treatment-related ischemic complications. Among patients who underwent temporary clipping (n = 69), multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that the total duration, number of attempts, and longest time per attempt were not risk factors for poor clinical outcome at discharge. However, the longest time per attempt was identified as the only independent risk factor for treatment-related ischemic complications (odds ratio, 2.883; 95 % confidence interval, 1.725−6.525; P = 0.042). ConclusionThe longest time per attempt might be associated with a higher risk of treatment-related ischemic complications during microsurgery for ruptured AchoA aneurysms. Treatment-related ischemic complications may be minimized by intermittent application of temporary clipping during surgery.

Risk factors for ischemic complications in vascular reconstructive surgeries

ObjectiveThere have been reports on postoperative ischemic complications with vascular reconstructive surgery. However, various factors, such as lesions, operative technique, and perioperative treatment, prevent analyzing the causes of ischemic complications in vascular reconstruction surgeries. In the present study, we analyzed the cause of ischemic complications for vascular reconstruction surgeries with the same operator, surgical procedure, and perioperative treatment and without focusing on the lesions. Patients and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed 66 patients, including 24 aneurysm cases and 42 ischemic disease cases, between 2008 and 2018. The patient group comprised 35 males and 31 females, and the patient mean age was 63.3 (23–87) years. We investigated the postoperative presence of symptomatic and asymptomatic cerebral ischemia on MRIDWI performed within 4 postoperative days. We conducted a statistical analysis of the ischemic complications and clinical and treatment factors. ResultsSymptomatic cerebral ischemia was detected in 3 cases, whereas asymptomatic ischemic findings were identified in 8 cases. All cases of symptomatic cerebral ischemia involved cerebral aneurysms. Results of a univariate analysis revealed an association between symptomatic cerebral ischemia and preoperative antithrombotic therapy (OR, 0.07; p = 0.049 (95 %CI; 0.007–0.8794)), clipping (OR, 4.8; p = 0.0501 (95 %CI; 1.641–342.9)), and aneurysm (OR, 14.16; p = 0.0423 (95 %CI; 0.6991–286.9)). Significant associations were found between asymptomatic cerebral ischemia and preoperative antithrombotic therapy [OR, 0.2941; p = 0.0514 (95 %CI; 0.08335–1.038)], aneurysms [OR, 7.8; p = 0.0146 (95 %CI; 1.414–43.04)] and radial artery grafts (RAGs) [OR, 6.8; p = 0.0192 (95 %CI; 1.410–32.98)]. Multivariate analysis identified clipping [OR, 5.462; p = 0.045 (95 %CI; 1.01–78.25] and preoperative antithrombotic therapy [OR, 0.187; p = 0.037 (95 %CI; 0.004–0.813)] as the risk factors for symptomatic cerebral ischemia. Further, a correlation was found between asymptomatic cerebral ischemia and RAGs [OR, 9.244; p = 0.00013 (95 %CI; 2.34–29.44)]. ConclusionIschemic complications associated with combined vascular reconstruction surgeries for cerebral aneurysms are possibly associated with procedures related to aneurysmal occlusions. Thus, vascular reconstruction surgeries can be performed relatively safely. Further, preoperative antithrombotic treatment should be considered, and caution is required for asymptomatic cerebral ischemia in RAG cases.

Avaliação das ações do programa Hiperdia para pacientes hipertensos

Este é um estudo quantitativo, descritivo e exploratório com o objetivo de avaliar a influência das ações do HIPERDIA na qualidade de vida dos pacientes hipertensos de uma cidade do Triângulo Mineiro, realizado entre 2013 e 2016. Utilizou-se questionário sociodemográfico e de saúde, coletas de sangue, bem como intervenção educativa. Quatrocentos e cinco hipertensos (18,4% do total dos cadastrados na cidade) participaram do estudo. Diabetes foi significativamente maior nos pacientes hipertensos (41,98%) do que nos normotensos, assim como problemas visuais (58,77%) e cardíacos (26,17%). Em 61,14% dos casos, apesar da medicação, a pressão arterial não estava controlada. Outros fatores de risco relevantes foram: sedentarismo (63,46%), sobrepeso e obesidade (80,72%), e medida da circunferência abdominal (88,3%). Conclui-se que os usuários do HIPERDIA apresentam fatores de risco para complicações isquêmicas que poderiam ser reduzidos com melhor adesão às práticas incentivadas pelo Programa.

76-Year-Old Man With New Bilateral Shoulder Pain

76-Year-Old Man With New Bilateral Shoulder Pain

The incidence of and risk factors for ischemic complications after microsurgical clipping of unruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysms and the efficacy of intraoperative monitoring of somatosensory evoked potentials: A retrospective study

ObjectivesIschemic complications (ICs) account for 6.7% after microsurgical clipping of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) monitoring during microsurgical clipping of unruptured middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms and evaluate the incidence of and risk factors for ischemic complications after clipping of unruptured MCA aneurysms. Patients and methodsHerein, 1208 patients with cerebral aneurysms and treated with microsurgical clipping between May 2003 and February 2015 were enrolled. Those with multiple aneurysms, history of head trauma, subarachnoid hemorrhage, bypass and/or endovascular treatment, and intraoperative rupture were excluded. Subsequently, 411 patients with single unruptured MCA aneurysms treated with simple microsurgical clipping were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups based on the application of SSEP monitoring during surgery. ResultsThe IC rate was 0.9% and 5.6% in the SSEP and non-SSEP groups, respectively. Univariate analysis revealed that age≥62.5years, aneurysm size≥4.15mm, temporary clipping, history of hyperlipidemia and stroke, and no-SSEP monitoring were risk factors for ICs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age≥62.5years (odds ratio [OR]=7.7; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]=1.5–37.7; P=0.011), previous stroke (OR=26.8, 95% CI=2.4–289.2, P=0.007), and inversely SSEP monitoring (OR=0.14, 95% CI 0.02–0.72, P=0.019) were independent risk factors for ICs. ConclusionClinicians should consider the possibility of IC during microsurgical clipping of unruptured MCA aneurysms in patient≥62.5years and/or a history of stroke. Intraoperative SSEP monitoring is an effective and feasible tool for preventing IC.

Risk Factors for Ischemic Complications following Pipeline Embolization Device Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms: Results from the IntrePED Study.

Risk factors for acute ischemic stroke following flow-diverter treatment of intracranial aneurysms are poorly understood. Using the International Retrospective Study of Pipeline Embolization Device (IntrePED) registry, we studied demographic, aneurysm, and procedural characteristics associated with postoperative acute ischemic stroke following Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) treatment. We identified patients in the IntrePED registry with post-PED-treatment acute ischemic stroke. The rate of postoperative acute ischemic stroke was determined by demographics, comorbidities, aneurysm characteristics, and procedure characteristics (including anticoagulation use, platelet testing, number of devices used, sheaths, and so forth). Categoric variables were compared with χ(2) testing, and continuous variables were compared with the Student t test. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were obtained by using univariate logistic regression. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine which factors were independently associated with postoperative stroke. Of 793 patients with 906 aneurysms, 36 (4.5%) patients had acute ischemic stroke. Twenty-six (72.2%) strokes occurred within 30 days of treatment (median, 3.5 days; range, 0-397 days). Ten patients died, and the remaining 26 had major neurologic morbidity. Variables associated with higher odds of acute ischemic stroke on univariate analysis included male sex, hypertension, treatment of MCA aneurysms, treatment of fusiform aneurysms, treatment of giant aneurysms, and use of multiple PEDs. However, on multivariate analysis, the only one of these variables independently associated with stroke was treatment of fusiform aneurysms (OR, 2.74; 95% CI, 1.11-6.75; P = .03). Fusiform aneurysms that were associated with stroke were significantly larger than those not associated with stroke (mean, 24.5 ± 12.5 mm versus 13.6 ± 6.8 mm; P < .001). Ischemic stroke following PED treatment is an uncommon-but-devastating complication. Fusiform aneurysms were the only variable independently associated with postoperative stroke.

Risk Factors for Newly Developed Cerebral Infarction After Surgical Revascularization for Adults with Moyamoya Disease

It is important to recognize the incidence and risk factors for ischemic complications after surgical revascularization for moyamoya disease (MMD). However, most studies focus on pediatric MMD or pediatric and adult MMD. Our study identified the incidence and risk factors of newly developed cerebral infarction after surgical revascularization for adult MMD. Ischemic complications were defined as newly developed cerebral infarction within 15 days after surgery, as identified by imaging studies. To identify the incidence and these risk factors for adult patients ≥18 years, we retrospectively reviewed our experience with 194 adult MMD patients with 241 surgical revascularizations. The incidence of symptomatic infarction after surgical revascularization was 5.8% (14 cases); 30 cases (12.4%) experienced a silent infarction. In univariate analysis, initial presentation as infarction, initial presentation as hemorrhage, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) >3 times/month, involvement of the posterior cerebral artery (PCA), combined bypass, and using muscle for revascularization were variables related to the newly developed cerebral infarction. Multivariate analysis revealed that the following factors were independently associated with newly developed cerebral infarction after surgery: cerebral infarction as initial presentation (odds ratio [OR] 1.150; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.038-1.273; P= 0.0073), TIAs >3times/month (OR 1.188; 95% CI 1.058-1.335; P= 0.0035), and PCA involvement (OR 1.095; 95% CI 1.005-1.194; P= 0.039). Our findings demonstrate that newly developed, silent cerebral infarction developed more frequently than symptomatic cerebral infarction in adult patients. Cerebral infarction as initial presentation, frequent TIA before surgery, and PCA involvement were also independent risk factors for newly developed cerebral infarction after surgical revascularization for adult MMD.

Vascular Calcifications on the Preoperative Radiograph: Predictor of Ischemic Complications in Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BackgroundVascular calcifications seen on the preoperative radiograph of patients scheduled for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are intuitively seen as a risk factor for ischemic complications though there is no empiric evidence to support this assumption. The aim of this study was the correlation of perioperative ischemic complications and vascular calcifications of patients undergoing TKA. MethodsIn this retrospective analysis, all 825 patients who had undergone primary TKA in the period 2009-2011 with intraoperative use of a tourniquet were included. Patients with pathologic pulse status and history of vascular intervention were excluded. Vascular calcifications seen on the preoperative radiograph were classified as intimal-type and medial-type calcifications and were correlated to perioperative ischemic complications. ResultsVascular calcifications were seen in 268 patients (medial type: n = 54, intimal type: n = 214). Major ischemic complications such as arterial thrombosis were seen in 2 patients, one of them with intimal-type calcifications and one without (complication rate 0.5% vs 0.2%, P = .715). The rate of minor ischemic complications such as protracted wound healing was significantly elevated in patients with intimal-type calcifications (6.1%) when compared to patients with medial-type calcifications (1.9%) and those without (1.6%, P = .003) even when multiple regression analysis was performed taking into account 2 potential influencing factors “age” and “diabetes mellitus” (P = .008). ConclusionOwing to the significantly increased risk of ischemic complications in patients with intimal-type calcifications undergoing TKA, we recommend high alertness to the presence of calcifications on preoperative radiographs, careful intraoperative soft tissue management, and postoperative monitoring of the vascular status.

Treatment of symptomatic basilar artery atheronatous ischemic disease with Wingspan stent system

Objective To explore the safety and efficacy of the Wingspan stenting of basilar artery atherosclerosis stenosis though the analysis of single center massive clinical data. Methods Ninety one consecutive patients received Wingspan stenting because of basilar artery stenosis in our center from July 2007 to April 2013. The patients were classified into three groups: early term (n=30), middle term (n=30), and late term (n=31) according to the operation time in our center. The basic clinical data and the factors which may affect the ischemic events were retrospectively analysed,t test andChi-Square test were used to analyze the factors related to the periprocedural ischemic complications. Results All of patients were stented successfully and the technical success rate was 100% (91/91). The mean stenosis was reduced from (82.2±5.8)% to (15.9±5.7)%; strokes or death happened in 13 cases within 30 days, including perforator stroke in 8 patients (8.8%, 8/91), thrombosis in 4 patients (4.4%, 4/91), subarachnoid hemo rrhage in 1 patient (1.1%, 1/91) , 2 patients with disabling or fatal strokes. Lesions involving in the middle segment of basal artery (P=0.049), long-segment disease (P=0.002), severe stenosis (P=0.001) may be a risk factor affecting perioperative ischemic stroke, and the surgeons' surgical technique was not risk factors for ischemic complications (P=1.000). Seventy seven patients (84.6%, 77/91) had the clinical follow-up and the mean follow-up period was (31.3±15.1) months. Four patients suffered from posterior circulation strokes during the clinical follow-up, one of them (1.3%, 1/77) had disabling stroke, another 3 patients (3.9%, 3/77) suffered from TIA. The 2-year accumulate probability of stroke (any stroke or death within 30 days and stroke in the territory of the qualifying artery beyond 30 days) was 16% (95%CI, 8.2% to 23.8%). Forty six patients had the imaging follow-up and the mean follow-up period was (9.5±8.3) months, 6 patients (13.0%,6/46) had in- stent restenosis (ISR) and 2/6 patient had the symptomatic ISR. Conclusions The stroke or death rate of symptomatic basilar atherosclerosis Wingspan stenting within 30 days is high, but the disabling or fatal stroke rate is low. The middle segment of basilar artery involved, the long stenosis, the severe atherosclerosis may be the factors related to the periprocedural ischemic strokes. The incidence of disabling or fatal strokes was low following Wingspan stenting. Key words: Atherosclerosis; Basilar artery; Stent; Stenosis

Vascular Complications of the Intra-aortic Balloon Pump in Patients Undergoing Open Heart Surgery: 10 Years' Experience

The most encountered complications with intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) use are seen within the vascular system. The purpose of our study is to evaluate vascular complications of the sheathless IABP in patients undergoing open heart surgery. Between January 2002 and December 2011, a total of 148 patients undergoing open heart surgery and needed IABP support were included in the study. All vascular complications related with IABP were recorded. Mean age of the patients was 64.4 ± 9.4 years. Total 104 (70.2%) were male and 44 (29.8%) were female. Total number of patients who had ischemic complications of the extremity was 13 (8.7%). The most used surgical treatment was embolectomy in five patients. Only one patient required an iliofemoral bypass. Above the knee amputation was performed in one patient. No balloon-related mortality occurred. Incidence of vascular complications in IABP counterpulsation is still a problem despite improvements in catheter design and techniques. The presence of peripheral arterial disease and diabetes mellitus is important risk factors for ischemic complications.

The risk stratification in atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common rhythm disorder and represents a major public health problem because it carries an increased risk of arterial thromboembolism and ischemic stroke. Because the absolute benefit of antithrombotic therapy depends on the underlying risk of stroke, an accurate stratification of patients' risk is needed to choose the appropriate antithrombotic strategy. Over the years, several stroke risk stratification models (RSMs) were developed based on the 'classic' risk factors for stroke such as increasing age, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and left ventricular dysfunction. Among all RSMs, the CHADS(2) score is the most popular and used one thanks to its simplicity and endorsement in several widely promulgated practice guidelines. Despite its validation in large datasets and specific population of AF patients, it has many limitations, especially due to the non-inclusion of several proven risk factors for stroke and to the classification of a large number of patients in the intermediate risk category, so creating ambiguity over the most appropriate antithrombotic therapy. Thus, the CHA(2)DS(2)-VASc score was introduced and was demonstrated to perform better than the CHADS(2), even in a "real world" population of elderly AF patients. Recently, in view of the availability of new oral anticoagulant drugs, that can overcome the limitations of warfarin and allow a more personalized therapy, many efforts are being made to identify other possibilities to assess the thromboembolic risk in AF patients. It has been demonstrated that an increase in C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 and the presence of G20210A factor II gene polymorphism and hyper-homocysteinemia are independent risk factors for ischemic complications in AF patients. Even the presence of chronic renal disease and the daily AF burden, registered with implantable monitors, are associated with an increase risk of stroke. Finally, the assessment of thromboembolic risk should go hand in hand with the consideration of the risk of bleeding. For this purpose, it has been recently developed a practical bleeding risk score, the HAS-BLED, which was included in the last ESC guidelines for the risk stratification of AF patients before starting anticoagulant therapy.

Risk of ischemic complications related to the intensity of triptan and ergotamine use

To investigate whether the intensity of triptan and ergotamine use, in specific overuse, is associated with the risk of ischemic complications. We conducted a retrospective nested case-control study using data from the PHARMO Record Linkage System. All patients with more than one prescription for either a triptan or ergotamine were initially identified. Cases were all patients who were admitted to the hospital for an ischemic complication. Matched controls were assigned the same index date as the cases. The determinant was the intensity of use of triptans and ergotamine during 1 year preceding the index date. Overuse was defined as use of > or =90 defined daily doses during that year. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs), adjusting for confounders. Stratified analysis was used to estimate the risk for both patients using and those not using cardiovascular drugs. A total of 17,439 patients received more than one prescription. A total of 188 cases and 689 controls were identified. Triptan overuse was not associated with an increased risk of ischemic complications (OR 0.96; 95% CI: 0.49 to 1.90). Overuse of triptans in patients concomitantly using cardiovascular drugs did not increase this risk. Overuse of ergotamine turned out to be a risk factor for ischemic complications (OR 2.55; 95% CI: 1.22 to 5.36). Patients overusing ergotamine and concomitantly using cardiovascular drugs were at highest risk (OR 8.52; 95% CI 2.57 to 28.2). In general practice, triptan overuse does not increase the risk of ischemic complications. Overuse of ergotamine may increase the risk of these complications, especially in those simultaneously using cardiovascular drugs.